China Travel Guide
Essential travel information — emergency numbers, safety, currency, visas, customs and getting around.
China is generally a safe country for travelers with low rates of violent crime. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas and public transport. Be mindful of your belongings and surroundings.
Renminbi (CNY)
Type A, C, I (mostly A and I)
Tipping is generally not customary in China and can sometimes be considered rude or confusing. In high-end hotels, some tour guides, or for exceptional service, a small gratuity might be accepted, but it is not expected.
It's highly recommended to purchase a local SIM card (China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom) upon arrival for data and calls. eSIMs are also available from some providers. Remember to activate a VPN for internet access to blocked international services.
Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter mainland China. It must be obtained in advance from a Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country. Visa-free transit policies are available for certain nationalities in specific cities for short stays.
Right
Major cities boast extensive, modern, and efficient public transport systems, including subways (metros), buses, and trams. High-speed rail connects most major cities, offering a fast and comfortable way to travel long distances.
Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行)
China's high-speed rail (G-trains, D-trains) network is world-renowned and the preferred method for intercity travel, offering speed, comfort, and reliability. Domestic flights are also widely available for longer distances, and long-distance buses connect smaller towns.
- • Respect elders: Show deference to older individuals.
- • Gift-giving: Give and receive items with both hands as a sign of respect.
- • Chopstick etiquette: Do not stick chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice; it resembles incense at funerals. Do not point with chopsticks.
- • Public behavior: Avoid overly loud conversations or public displays of affection. Spitting in public is frowned upon in many urban areas.
- • Shoes: Remove your shoes when entering someone's home.
Casual wear is generally acceptable in cities. When visiting temples, mosques, or more conservative rural areas, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Swimwear is appropriate only at beaches or pools.
When visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly, speak softly, and avoid pointing at statues or religious figures. Seek permission before taking photos of people, especially monks or worshippers. Remove hats inside temples.
Basketball — Basketball is immensely popular, with the NBA having a huge following. Table tennis and badminton are also national favorites, with China dominating international competitions. Tai Chi and various forms of exercise are widely practiced in public parks, especially by the elderly. Football (soccer) also has a growing professional league and fan base.
Late January or February (variable)
Chinese New Year (Spring Festival)
The most important traditional Chinese holiday, celebrating family reunions, marked by fireworks, elaborate meals, red envelopes (hongbao), and dragon dances. Many businesses close during this period.
Early April (variable, usually April 4th or 5th)
Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day)
A day for Chinese people to honor their ancestors by visiting gravesites, offering food and drink, and sweeping tombs. It's also a time for spring outings.
June (5th day of the 5th lunar month, variable)
Dragon Boat Festival
Commemorates the death of the poet Qu Yuan. Celebrations include dragon boat races, eating Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), and drinking realgar wine.
September or October (15th day of the 8th lunar month, variable)
Mid-Autumn Festival
A harvest festival celebrating the full moon. Families gather to eat mooncakes, admire the moon, and light lanterns.
October 1st
National Day
Celebrates the founding of the People's Republic of China. It kicks off a week-long national holiday (Golden Week), with parades, patriotic displays, and widespread domestic travel.